September 2024
The Power of Reporting Concerns: Why It’s Better than Sharing on Social Media
In today's digital world, social media has become our go-to platform for sharing thoughts, opinions, and concerns. Whether we’re talking about personal experiences, raising awareness, or voicing an opinion, it offers me a quick and accessible way to reach a large audience. However, when it comes to reporting serious concerns, especially those involving safety or well-being, I’ve come to realize that social media often does more harm than good. Using direct reporting tools like the Hobbs Schools StopIT app, sending an email or making a phone call, or simply speaking to someone in person is a far better way to ensure concerns are effectively addressed.
I understand the instinct to post on social media. It feels like an immediate way to alert others, get validation, or draw attention to a pressing issue. But this kind of "broadcasting" can easily get out of control and lead to unintended consequences. Posting concerns online can spark rumors, spread misinformation, and even create unnecessary panic. Social media tends to amplify situations without ensuring that the context or facts are right. Even when we have good intentions, a single post can quickly spread and escalate before the actual problem is properly investigated.
On the other hand, reporting concerns through the appropriate channels, like the StopIT app or directly contacting the school, allows for a more focused, private, and effective resolution. When you use these tools, your report goes straight to the people who can actually help—whether that's school administrators, law enforcement, or counselors. These professionals are equipped to handle the situation responsibly, ensuring that it’s addressed by those who can make a real difference, rather than leaving it to the mercy of social media reactions.
A key benefit of using proper reporting tools is ensuring that accurate information is shared. Social media posts often lack full context and are based on incomplete observations, which can distort the facts and make it harder for authorities to understand and address the issue. By reporting directly to the appropriate authority, one can make sure the right details are communicated, reducing the risk of misinformation and helping the situation get resolved more quickly.
Timeliness and action are also crucial reasons why using reporting tools are more effective. Social media might generate attention, but it often takes a lot of time to sift through posts and comments. Meanwhile, reporting through the proper channels triggers a real-time response from the people who need to act. Whether we are concerned about safety, bullying, or suspicious behavior, the report will be reviewed immediately, allowing the school to take swift and appropriate action.
Beyond protecting others and ensuring accuracy, reporting through the proper tools fosters a sense of shared responsibility. When a concern is reported directly, the reporter is actively contributing to the safety of our community, rather than just observing from the sidelines. We are taking a concrete step toward making a difference.
In the end, by reporting concerns to the right authorities, you are helping ensure that every report is given the attention it deserves. When reports are credible, further steps are taken to protect students and staff. And when reports turn out to be false, the school will determine if the post was meant to cause harm, and those responsible will face consequences. Hobbs Schools values and appreciates our community’s efforts in sharing accurate information and working together to keep students and staff safe.
Gene Strickland
Superintendent
Hobbs Municipal Schools